Friday, February 20, 2009

weight loss and "the last straw"

Yesterday I had two patients who described their reason for entering our program was they hit "one last straw". For one person, it was being placed by her internist on a blood pressure medication. The other person said that she put a dress on that was one of her favorites, and it did not fit. In one case, it was a health issue that caused the patient to make a definitive move to help her lose weight. In the other, it was an aesthetic/vanity motivator.

Psychologically, often when it comes to confronting a weight problem, many people take the road of denial/avoidance. The weight does not get checked, the person avoids looking in the mirror, and in general, thoughts of addressing the weight problem are blocked out of the mind. However, when something very "real" happens, such as a medical problem requiring medication or other intervention, or a social situation calls for the wearing of a gown or a bathing suit, the person is forced to confront their weight issue.

For many, it will take a "last straw" to become motivated and begin a healthier lifestyle. For some, the "last straw" may come too late...a serious heart attack, a major diabetic complication, etc. NOW is the time to do something about your weight...do not wait for a last straw!

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